Chrome’s new Split View feature revolutionizes multitasking by letting you view two tabs side by side within a single browser window, eliminating the need to constantly switch between tabs or manage multiple windows. This native functionality brings Chrome on par with competitors like Edge and Vivaldi, offering a seamless way to compare content, research, and work more efficiently.
Understanding Chrome Split View
Split View divides your Chrome window into two equal panes, displaying separate webpages on the left and right sides. Each pane functions independently, allowing full interaction like scrolling, typing, or searching within its own address bar. The feature integrates smoothly with Chrome’s existing tab management, keeping both pages grouped as a single workspace that can be closed or moved together.
Why This Feature Changes Everything
Previously, Chrome users relied on operating system split-screen tools or third-party extensions, which often felt clunky and disrupted workflow. Native Split View eliminates these workarounds, providing precise control over layout directly within the browser. It shines on modern widescreen monitors where both pages remain fully readable, transforming how users handle dual-task browsing.
Perfect Use Cases
Split View excels in scenarios requiring simultaneous visibility of related content. Whether comparing product specifications across retailers, referencing documentation while coding, or watching tutorials alongside instructions, the feature keeps everything in view without interruption. Students benefit by pairing lecture notes with research articles, while professionals streamline email drafting against reference materials.
| Task Type | Traditional Method | Split View Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Price Comparison | Alt-tab between sites | Real-time side-by-side viewing |
| Research & Notes | Multiple windows | Single workspace integration |
| Video + Instructions | Picture-in-picture hacks | Full pane dedication |
Enabling the Feature
The Split View option appears in Chrome versions 142 and later, rolling out gradually to stable channel users. Update Chrome through Settings > About Chrome, then restart the browser to ensure the feature activates. If unavailable immediately, it may appear within days as Google completes the server-side rollout to your account.
Step-by-Step Setup
Begin with two open tabs containing your desired pages, then activate Split View through simple right-click actions for instant side-by-side viewing.
- Load both webpages in separate tabs within the same Chrome window.
- Right-click the first tab and select “Add tab to new split view.”
- The tab moves to the left pane; choose your second tab for the right pane.
- Interact with either page normally—click to focus, use address bars independently.
Customizing Your Layout
Chrome provides intuitive controls for refining the split experience, from resizing panes to swapping positions or exiting the mode entirely.
- Drag the central divider left/right to resize panes proportionally.
- Click the Split View icon (top-left) and select “Reverse views” to swap sides.
- Close individual panes via the X button in each pane’s bottom-right corner.
- Return to normal tabs by clicking the Split View icon and choosing “Separate views.”
Permanently Access Split View
Pin the Split View icon for one-click access from any normal tab, making it as convenient as Chrome’s bookmark bar.
- Enter Split View mode to make the toolbar icon appear.
- Right-click the icon next to the address bar and select “Pin.”
- The pinned icon stays visible; click it anytime to launch new split sessions.
Advanced Multitasking Tips
Split View coexists with regular tabs, allowing background pages to stay accessible while you focus on your dual-pane workspace. Create multiple split pairs in one window for organized workflows—pair email with calendars, code with docs, or social feeds with news. Combine with tab groups for color-coded project zones, or use Chrome profiles to maintain separate work/leisure splits. Keyboard shortcuts remain fully functional across panes, and extensions like ad blockers operate normally in both views. This feature particularly transforms ultrawide monitor setups, dedicating screen real estate efficiently without bezel interruptions from separate windows.
